2011 Zero Motorcycles Lineup

New quick charger available for all models

Zero Motorcycles has introduced its 2011 lineup featuring a number of updates including a new quick-charger for all models.

According to Zero, the optional quick charge unit cuts the charge time by nearly 50%. The quick charger is also compatible with J1772 public charging stations, a first for electric motorcycles, according to Zero. The quick charger is available on the Zero S, Zero DS, Zero X and Zero MX for an extra $595.

All models also received updated brakes, suspension, wheels and Z-Force power train. Also new are street legal configurations for the Zero X and Zero MX dirt bikes, and a new belt drive system for the Zero S and Zero DS. All four models get updated body panels with the Zero S and Zero DS receiving a black power pack.

“During the past year, our Engineering and Manufacturing teams have benefitted from experienced new leadership and the results are clear. In close coordination, they have been working overtime to design and build the world’s finest collection of electric motorcycles,” says Gene Banman, CEO of Zero Motorcycles. “Our 2011 model line is composed of exceptionally high quality electric motorcycles that balance performance, range, weight, affordability and availability. We are excited to announce such major changes across the entire model line and to also be setting new industry standards in the way we report on our motorcycles’ performance specifications.”

2011 Zero S

The 2011 Zero S receives a new power pack offering 12.5% more capacity than previous models. The battery pack has an estimated charge time of 4 hours, but the quick charger can reduce the charge time to about 2.3 hours for a full charge.

The new HB Performance brakes feature 31mm front rotors and thicker 4mm rear rotors. The front master cylinders are also larger for more stopping power.

The suspension systems use new forks and shock internals and the triple clamps have been modified to improve pre-loading and durability. The updated suspension has been tuned for street performance. Front suspension allows for adjustable compression and rebound damping while the rear is fully adjustable.

The new red anodized wheels are now at 17 inches instead of the previous 16-inch wheels. The new instrument panel offers more precise diagnostic data. Other new features include a keyed ignition switch and steering lock.

The Zero S is available in red or black at a price of $9,995 (the Zero S is also eligible for a 10% federal tax credit). Visit our gallery for more pictures of the 2011 Zero S.

2011 Zero DS

The dual sport Zero DS shares the same platform as the Zero S and gets the same upgrades for 2011. The 2010 model already used a 17 inch front wheel with a 16 inch rear wheel, and those remain the same size but get the new red anodized rims found on the Zero S.

Like the Zero S, the Zero DS needs about 4 hours for a full charge, 2.3 hours with the quick charger.

The 2011 Zero DS will be available in black or white for $10,495 (like the Zero S, the DS is also eligible for a 10% federal tax credit). Visit our gallery for more pictures of the 2011 Zero DS.

2011 Zero X

The Zero X will be offered in dirt bike and street bike configurations. The street legal version includes a homologated light system, plate holder, mirrors, street tires, side stand and integrated front dash and fly screen. The street version also gets higher rear sprocket gearing for a higher top speed.

Both configurations are equipped with a new trail-tuned suspension with adjustable compression and rebound damping up front and adjustable preload and rebound damping at the rear. Both configurations also receive updated 220mm HB Performance brakes, new foot pegs and higher handlebars with adjustable risers.

The Zero X gets a smaller front wheel (1.85x19 compared to the 2010 model’s 3.0x24) and rear wheel (2.15x16 compared to 3.5x17). The Zero X gets a full charge in about 2 hours with the quick charger cutting that down to about 1.2 hours.

The 2011 Zero X will be available in white, and is priced at $7,995 for the dirt configuration while the street version is priced at $8,495. If purchased with a second power pack, the street configuration is eligible for the 10% federal tax credit. Visit our gallery for more pictures of the 2011 Zero X.

2011 Zero MX

The Zero MX motocross bike shares the Zero X’s platform with similar upgrades. The Zero MX also gets a more powerful Agni motor with an integrated air induction system. According to Zero, the new motor offers more torque and can sustain a higher power output for a longer duration than previous models.

The suspension system has been re-tuned for motocross tracks and, like the Zero X, the wheels are smaller (1.85x19 up front and 2.15x16 at the rear).

The Zero MX is also available in a street legal configuration with lights, mirrors, license plate, street tires, side stand, integrated front dash and fly screen, and higher-speed gearing.

Like the Zero X, the Zero MX gets a full charge in about 2 hours and about 1.2 hours with the quick charger.

The 2011 Zero MX is priced at $9,495 for the dirt configuration. The street version is priced at $9,945 and is eligible for a 10% federal tax credit when purchased with a second power pack. Visit our gallery for more pictures of the 2011 Zero MX.